Seeking Disaster Assistance

Direct assistance to individuals and families may come from any number of organizations, including:

• Non-profit organizations
• Religious organizations
• Local government
• State government

In the most severe disasters, the federal government is also called in to help individuals and families with temporary housing, counseling (for post-disaster trauma), low-interest loans and grants, and other assistance. The federal government also has programs that help small businesses and farmers.

The emotional toll that disaster brings can sometimes be even more devastating than the financial strains of damage and loss of home, business, or personal property.

Try to keep these things in mind:

• Everyone who sees or experiences a disaster is affected by it in some way.
• It is normal to feel anxious about your own safety and that of your family and close friends.
• Profound sadness, grief, and anger are normal reactions to an abnormal event.
• Acknowledging your feelings helps you recover.
• Focusing on your strengths and abilities helps you heal.
• Accepting help from community programs and resources is healthy.
• Everyone has different needs and different ways of coping.
• It is common to want to strike back at people who have caused great pain.

If your property is damaged during a disaster, you can apply for grants and assistance. Find a complete list of sources at www.fema.gov

SOURCE: Fema.gov